Post by Samuel Baraka

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 Last week, Senior Counsel Dr. Fred Ojiambo’s keynote address at the National Conversation set the tone for an engaging discussion on character, accountability, and leadership. In line with the theme of Forgiveness and Reconciliation, his remarks challenged the room to reflect on how easily we judge the failures of others while overlooking our own, in many ways, throwing stones from a glass house. What followed was an honest conversation among citizens, religious leaders, members of the private and public sectors, and legislators from both Houses of Parliament. A recurring theme emerged: while we are often quick to point out the shortcomings of others, the question of character is one that confronts all of us collectively. More importantly, the discussion underscored that governance conversations matter. National progress cannot rest solely on citizens, institutions or elected leaders, nor can our flawed human nature become a justification for poor leadership or public complacency. To me, that is the value of the National Conversation held annually the afternoon before the National Prayer Breakfast. It serves as a reminder that prayer for the nation is important, but so too is creating space for honest discourse on the issues shaping our society and our future.  I am grateful to AYLF Kenya for the opportunity to participate in this year’s National Conversation and Prayer Breakfast, and equally thankful for the chance to reconnect with old friends and colleagues in the process.  Participating this year was also a timely reminder of the role character plays in building public trust, a subject we will continue examining in the lead-up to the 2027 elections through the ALN Academy’s Road to 10/8 series, led by Karim Anjarwalla alongside my colleagues Rutendo Nyaku, Zayn Admani, Victor Maina, and Ali Fila. Building on the Road to 9/8 initiative before the 2022 elections, the series will explore public trust in institutions, governance, and electoral integrity through polls, thought leadership pieces, and live conversations over the coming months. I look forward to sharing more soon, and to engaging with all who choose to join the conversation.